FAQ

WHAT IS NEXIUM 24HR?

What is Nexium 24HR?

Nexium 24HR is a non-prescription medication indicated for the treatment of frequent heartburn (two or more days a week) in adults (18 years and older). The active ingredient in Nexium 24HR is esomeprazole 20mg (as esomeprazole magnesium trihydrate).
Why is it called Nexium 24HR?

The Nexium 24HR brand name refers to the dosage cycle (1 pill every 24 hours).
Is there a difference between Nexium 24HR and prescription NEXIUM?

The formulations of the 20mg non-prescription capsules (Nexium 24HR) and the prescription 20mg tablets (NEXIUM) contain the same active ingredient, esomeprazole (as esomeprazole magnesium trihydrate), although there are differences in indications and directions for use.

Nexium 24HR is indicated for adults (18 years and older) with frequent heartburn — when you have heartburn two or more days a week — whereas prescription NEXIUM is indicated for many acid-related conditions.
How safe is taking Nexium 24HR?

Nexium 24HR has been prescribed by doctors in Canada for frequent heartburn and NEXIUM has been prescribed by doctors for over 15 years.

For more product information, visit our About Nexium 24HR page.

How does Nexium 24HR treat frequent heartburn?

Cells in the lining of the stomach contain proton pumps that produce the acid your body uses during digestion. Heartburn can be caused when this stomach acid flows up into the esophagus. Nexium 24HR treats frequent heartburn by turning your acid pumps from on to off, reducing the amount of acid that rises into your esophagus and alleviating heartburn.
What are proton pump inhibitors?

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a group of medications that stop heartburn at the source by turning off many of the pumps that produce acid. Nexium 24HR belongs to this group of medications.
What’s the difference between PPIs and H2 blockers?

H2s treat heartburn by blocking one of the signals that tell your body to produce acid. However, if you use H2 blockers over and over again, they can become less effective at treating heartburn.

PPIs (proton pump inhibitors), like Nexium 24HR, treat frequent heartburn by blocking the production of acid.
What is the difference between PPIs and Antacids?

Antacids work quickly, by neutralizing the acid in your stomach, and last for only 1-3 hours after use. PPIs (proton pump inhibitors), like Nexium 24HR, treat frequent heartburn by blocking the production of stomach acid. PPIs are not intended for immediate relief.
How quickly does Nexium 24HR work?

Nexium 24HR is not intended for immediate relief and may take 1-4 days for full effect.

Who should take Nexium 24HR?

People 18 years and older with frequent heartburn (occurring two or more days a week) can take Nexium 24HR.
Will Nexium 24HR be safe to take with my other heartburn medications?

You should ask your physician or pharmacist before using Nexium 24HR while taking other medications.
Can I stop taking my prescription heartburn medication and take Nexium 24HR?

You should not change or stop taking any prescriptions without first consulting with your healthcare professional. As always, it is important to discuss your frequent heartburn symptoms, lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise) and any acid-related conditions with your healthcare professional. Your healthcare professional may help determine if Nexium 24HR is the right option to treat your frequent heartburn.

Is Nexium 24HR available for purchase over-the-counter?

Yes, Nexium 24HR has been available without a prescription for the treatment of frequent heartburn since 2015.
Where is Nexium 24HR sold without a prescription?

Nexium 24HR is available in pharmacies and general merchandise/grocery stores with a pharmacy section. It is also available online through accredited online pharmacies.
Is NEXIUM still available by prescription?

Yes. All prescription NEXIUM indications and formulations remain available with a prescription. However, Nexium 24HR is available without a prescription for the treatment of frequent heartburn.